Why after the 3rd offense? I understand if the couple has a history of fighting, i.e. getting in a spat. Then, it may not be abuse, just dysfunctional. This is why common sense should still be taught and used, in and outside of the police department; but, if it's domestic abuse/domestic assault, why should an abuser get three chances to hospitalize and/or kill a person before getting serious jail time? Too, why should it have to be physical abuse to get jail time? Most abuse, domestic and otherwise, is verbal/psychological and no less dangerous/damaging than physical abuse.